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Turbo charged addition to Shannon Air Display

Stunning Viggen Saab added to the line-up for Saturday, July 18th Shannon Air Display

Acts from across Europe to delight huge crowds with sky acrobatics and dare-devil feats

Family fun day to also include wide array of free activities on the ground

The line-up for the Shannon Air Display to mark the 70th anniversary of the first transatlantic commercial flight at the airport has been turbo-boosted with the announcement that the renowned Swedish jet, the Viggen Saab, has been added to a growing list of aircraft set to enthral 40,000 people at the July 18th event.

In what will be the first ever performance at an Irish air show by this stunning aircraft , the performance is set to deliver one of the high-points of the Shannon Air Display as one of the most advanced jets from its era goes through its paces.

Hugely advanced in digital technology for its era, the Viggen Saab was a revolutionary and stunning looking aircraft when it first appeared in the 1970s and remains one of the most dynamic aircrafts in appearance, despite having been retired from official duties ten years ago.

Shannon Airport Operations Director Niall Maloney said that the Viggen Saab is an exciting addition to the line-up. “We will have a fantastic collection of aircraft and performances on the day and the Viggen Saab will be one of them. Despite having been designed over 40 years ago, it is still an incredible looking aircraft and will enthral young and old alike.”

Some 20 separate performances, many involving multiple aircraft, will dominate the skies over Shannon on the Saturday fortnight. The airshow will provide a visual treat from some of Ireland and Europe’s leading aerobatics performers, parachutists, helicopters, jet fighters and stunt fliers during the six hour event.

In addition to the aerial manoeuvres on the day, there will be plenty of on-the-ground action, including a static aircraft and Irish Defence Forces ground equipment display, entertainment zone, live music and a catering zone with an array of dining choices. The entertainment area will be especially geared to children, with activities to include a bungee run, obstacle course, a 30ft spider climber, a party-bouncer, a giant Jenga game, puppet shows, a 40 seater carousel, face painters, magicians, a nail art station and much, much more.

Tickets for the event are already selling briskly and cost just €5. They are available on Eventbrite –http://shannondisplay15.eventbrite.ie – children under 6 years are free and all activities on the airfield are free and ticket-holders will also be entitled to free access that weekend to a choice of either Bunratty Castle, King John’s Castle or Craggaunowen visitor attractions.